HOW-TO: Two-Toned Braided Updo by Heidi Hull

We spotted Heidi Hull's braided updo styling of fellow stylist Amy Hotaling and knew we must have the steps to recreate her look!

The braided updo on Hotaling is achieved starting with a cut that is more or less finger-length for all the hair in front of the ear. Hotaling did the color herself; the shorter section is lightened to a pale blonde with Redken Blonde Icing 20 vol, then Pravana Wild Orchid.

The look made us do a double-take! It is functional but also forward-thinking and unique.

GET THE LOOK

STEP 1: Start with a three-strand scalp braid in the back behind the ear, leaving some hair out for a second braid later; direct the braid forward around the shaved side of the head.

STEP 2: Continue braiding and angle the braid diagonally around the face for a tilted-hat look or softer look.

STEP 3: Take the section you left out and braid in an upward direction (as if it were a ponytail) in order to lie nicely behind the first braid.

STEP 4: Use a clear band to hold the braid together. Tuck and bobby pin pieces as needed to secure hair.

STEP 5: To finish, pull the braid apart slightly around the face to make it larger. Spray with Redken Control Addict high control hairspray for hold.

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About the Author:

Lauren Quick

Lauren Quick is the editor of First Chair magazine and the associate editor of Modern Salon and Salon Today. She manages products, news and men's sections for Modern Salon and regularly attends events for live coverage on social media.
Lauren attended the University of Missouri School of Journalism and is an avid Tigers fan (MIZ!). Her emphasis area was magazine journalism, specifically editing, and she obtained minors in sociology and Spanish.
Lauren was a department and web editor for Vox magazine and a reporter for the Columbia Missourian newspaper before she worked at Modern Salon. She grew up in Springfield, Mo., and now lives in the Chicago area.